Let's face it: college isn't for everyone...and that's okay. About two-thirds of millennials from ages 25 to 32 lack a bachelor's degree, according to the Pew Research Center.
But if you fall in this cohort, what do your job options look like?
Research from the Federal Reserve Banks of Philadelphia, Cleveland and Atlanta shows there are "opportunity occupations" available—jobs that often pay better than the median wage of $35,540 a year and don't require a degree.
Using data from PayScale and the Bureau of Labor Statistics, here's everything you need to know about these opportunity occupations.
Registered nurse
Average annual salary: $51,000
Licenses or certifications you may need: All 50 states require registered nurses to have a nursing license from approved nursing programs, and they must pass the National Council Licensure Examination (or NCLEX-RN). Requirements for licensing may vary by state, which you can find via the National Council of State Boards of Nursing.
Bookkeeping, accounting and auditing clerks
Average annual salary: $39,000
Licenses or certifications you may need: Most of these positions have on-the-job training. However, some jobs may require certifications, including the Certified Bookkeeper designation awarded by the American Institute of Professional Bookkeepers. Requirements include at least two years of full-time bookkeeping experience or equivalent part-time work, and adherence to a code of ethics. You may also receive certification through the National Association of Certified Public Bookkeepers, which requires you to pass an online test.
Tractor-trailer truck driver
Average annual salary: $48,000
Licenses or certifications you may need: Tractor-trailer driver jobs require a commercial driver's license (CDL), which generally includes passing a knowledge test and driving test--but qualifications vary by state. Drivers normally receive on-the-job training for the first three months after being hired.
Retail sales supervisor
Average annual salary: $35,000
Licenses or certifications you may need: Although this role may not require particular licensing or certifications, retailers normally prefer candidates with a high school degree or equivalent. Most retail sales workers receive on-the-job training and typically have the opportunity for career advancement to supervisory and managerial positions. Transferable skills are a plus in this industry.
Maintenance and repair worker
Average annual salary: $34,000
Licenses or certifications you may need: Much of this work is on-the-job training under skilled maintenance workers. Licensing requirements vary by state. Specialties like plumbing and electrical work may require licensing.
Police and sheriff's patrol officer
Average annual salary: $45,000
Licenses or certifications you may need: Candidates need to graduate from a police academy, and requirements vary by state. They must also pass a background check, physical exam and a psychiatric evaluation.
Licensed practical and vocational nurse
Average annual salary: $41,000
Licenses or certifications you may need: These jobs require completion of a state-approved educational program and passing the National Council Licensure or NCLEX-PN. Work in specialized areas, such as gerontology and IV therapy, require certifications through professional associations.
Secretary and administrative assistant
Average annual salary: $37,000
Licenses or certifications you may need: Certifications may not be required, but are preferred. A good starting point is the Certified Administrative Professional (CAP) certification, which is offered by the International Association of Administrative Professionals. Candidates need at least two to four years of administrative work experience, and they need to pass an exam.
Electrician
Average annual salary: $51,000
Licenses or certifications you may need: Most states require electricians to pass a test with questions related to the national, state and local electric codes in addition to being licensed. Because requirements vary by state, it's important you contact your local or state electrical licensing board for more information. Most electricians learn their trade in an apprenticeship program, which require you be at least 18 years of age, have a high school diploma or equivalent, have had one year of algebra and a qualifying score on an aptitude test and pass a drug test.
Carpenter
Average annual salary: $45,000
Licenses or certifications you may need: A high school diploma or equivalent is required for carpentry jobs. Similar to electricians, carpenters learn their trade through an apprenticeship and on-the-job training. They may also receive specialized training in areas like welding and concrete, and complete Occupational Safety and Health Administrations (OSHA) 10- and 30-hour safety courses. Other requirements ask that you be 18 years of age, a U.S. citizen, that you pass a drug test and that you're physically able to do the work.
<Source: www.monster.com>
